Environmental research continues to be the poor cousin in the Government’s National Science Investment Strategy (NSIS) receiving the least of the five major science sectors in 2014 with no commitment to increase future funding for the sector; in contrast with all the other major research sectors. The NSIS promises increased spending on research in manufacturing, […]
science
Reboot to an innovation economy, an Internet economy and a clean economy
In my short 33 years on this planet we’ve seen phenomenal technological, economic and social change, and it’s realistic to expect the next 33 will see even more, even faster change.
National’s innovation policy in three charts
If Steven Joyce is such a believer in innovation, why is he planning to cut his investment in innovation so dramatically? Here, in three charts, is what National’s long-term commitment to innovation looks like: 1. National will cut their investment in science and innovation by 21 percent, in real terms, out to 2023/24. 2. The […]
Devaluing science
A recent article by Jacqueline Rowarth, Professor of Agribusiness at Waikato University, gives a very good summary of this government’s muddled thinking (my words, not hers!) about the value of science and scientists. On one hand we have Minister Joyce trumpeting the importance of science, and attempting to wield some very blunt instruments to ‘encourage’ […]
In defence of science
While universities are primarily charged with promoting learning they also have a vital role as the critic and conscience of society. Scientists ask questions, investigate, research, analyse the data and report on the results. Their work informs the public debate. How then are we to interpret repeated attacks on university scientists such as Massey University’s […]
Gluckman on science and the environment
Professor Peter Gluckman, the Prime Minister’s science advisor, delivered a speech today about “Bringing science and policy together for good environmental outcomes”. While he touches on many issues some positive others not so much I wanted to focus on a particular issue he addresses. Part way through his speech he highlights that “[s]cience and technology […]
Policy-making needs science
A recent editorial in Science points out the importance of using evidence based policy. The Editor-in-Chief, Bruce Alberts writes: “It is … disturbing that so many lawmakers elected to the new U.S. Congress reject the overwhelming scientific consensus with respect to human-induced climate change. The question now facing the United States is not only how […]
John Delaney: Wiring an interactive ocean
Oceanographer John Delaney talks about how we are already beginning to wire up the ocean and how important this is for the survival of our species. Have a look and get inspired.
A whiff of robbing Peter to pay Paul
The government’s pre-budget announcement about funding for science is a classic curate’s egg – good in parts, but potentially concealing something a bit malodorous.
CRI Taskforce is refreshing
The report of the CRI Taskforce released yesterday contains some refreshingly clear thinking about the best way to support science and research in New Zealand.